Later, John Nelson Darby (c. 1800–1882) borrowed
and popularized it. The modern influence ofpremillennialism doctrine received wide influence
through him.

Prior to the Morgan Edwards, it was unknown to
students of Bible prophecy.

Literalizing the Last Trumpet

As we have alluded to the texts on the last
trumpet, we shall briefly not that the time
references to the first century generation point
to a figurative or apocalyptic use of the term.

Early on Dispensationalists were warned about
literalizing scriptures, a concept borrowed from
Jewish interpreters, that landed them into much
fanciful speculations about the future.

Selfishness Versus Serving

Paul, certainly believed in the imminent return of
the Messiah, albeit in his own generation. He
along with other apostles taught that Jesus’ return
would come in their life time, Rom. 13:11, 12, Phil.
4:5, James 5:7, 8; 1 Peter 4:7, 17; Rev. 1:1, 3, 22:
6, 10).

Yet, Paul recognize that as desirable as a departure
from the earthly life might be [through natural death,
not escapism through an imagined rapture], he
sought a more practical end.

“For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a
desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far
better.

Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful
for you. And being confident of this. I know that
I shall remain and continue with you all for your
progress and joy of faith. (Phil. 1:23–25).

Paul’s aim was to remain on earth, serving the
church, deeming it more beneficial than his
own departure to be with the Lord.

Those who want to be swooped up out of this
world to leave the wicked behind are expressing
one of the most anti-gospel sentiments imaginable.

They want to be served, rather than be servants.
Yet, Jesus said, he that is greatest among you
let him be your servant. There’s lots of work to
do on earth.

Paul likewise warned the Thessalonicans, who
got overly enthusiastic about the imminent
return of Christ, placing it about 20 years to
soon.

Many of them had quit working and serving
society to become busy bodies. He offered
them severe rebuke.

“For even when we were with you, we commanded
you this; If anyone will not work, neither shall
he eat.

For we hear that there are some who walk among
you in a disorderly manner, nor working at all
but are busy bodies.” (2 Thes. 3:10, 11)

None of us will escape alive, so we might as well
forget these notions of Rapture and dig in to
service.

How many times can we allow Tim LaHaye,
Hal Lindsey, and Thomas Ice, to falsely predict
the coming of the Lord?

Once is too many! See Deuteronomy 18:22.

Apparently Mr. Bent, got too caught up in the
false notions invented in the mid 18th century
and appears to be a victim of more “Left Behind”
errors.

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